Uncharged Particle near Charged Mass

In summary, the curvature of space-time around an uncharged mass is different from that around a charged mass. This means that an uncharged particle would follow a different geodesic trajectory depending on whether the source is charged or uncharged. However, this does not imply an electromagnetic force on the particle, as it is following a geodesic with no proper acceleration in both cases. The difference in geometry is due to the energy stored in the electromagnetic field and does not indicate any interaction between the two bodies.
  • #1
DarthVader
9
0
I know that the curvature of space-time around an uncharged mass is different from that around a charged mass (specifically, one situation is characterized by the Schwarzschild metric and the other by the Reissner-Nordstorm metric). But consider an uncharged particle in each situation. Wouldn't this imply that this particle follows a different geodesic trajectory depending on whether the source is charged or uncharged? So wouldn't this mean that there is an electromagnetic force on this particle even though it is uncharged?
 
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  • #2
DarthVader said:
So wouldn't this mean that there is an electromagnetic force on this particle even though it is uncharged?

No. There is no force on the uncharged particle, it is following a geodesic with no proper acceleration in both cases. Do not mistake the different geometry of space-time in the two cases for an electromagnetic force.
 
  • #3
It means the gravitational field (i.e. the geometry of spacetime) is different due to the energy stored in the EM field. It doesn't mean that there is any electromagnetic interaction between the two bodies.
 

Related to Uncharged Particle near Charged Mass

1. What is an uncharged particle?

An uncharged particle is a particle that does not have an electric charge, meaning it is neither positively nor negatively charged.

2. What is a charged mass?

A charged mass is a particle with an electric charge, either positive or negative.

3. How do uncharged particles interact with charged masses?

Uncharged particles do not interact with charged masses through electric forces, as they do not have an electric charge. However, they may still interact through other forces, such as gravitational or nuclear forces.

4. Can an uncharged particle become charged when near a charged mass?

It is possible for an uncharged particle to become charged when near a charged mass. This can happen through a process called induction, where the charged mass can induce a temporary charge on the uncharged particle.

5. What is the significance of studying uncharged particles near charged masses?

Studying the interactions between uncharged particles and charged masses can help us better understand the fundamental forces of nature and how they affect the behavior of particles. This knowledge can also have practical applications, such as in the development of new technologies and materials.

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